On New Year's Day, my 13-year-old nephew, Landon, lost control while skiing with my brother, Eddie, sister-in-law, Kate and my niece, Lily, at Eldora Mountain in Colorado. Landon crashed into a tree and lost consciousness. Thankfully, the ski patrol and paramedics at Eldora rescued Landon and he was Life-Flighted to Children’s Hospital Colorado. After 72 hours of being placed in a medically induced coma, Landon slowly woke up. An MRI revealed that although he had a DAI level 2 brain injury and several facial fractures, Landon was expected to survive!
I don't think any of us breathed until we got this news. He has seen close to 100 medical professionals in the past week. Thanks to the phenomenal care provided at CHC, Landon was moved out of ICU on January 8th. Every day Landon shows signs of improvement, however, he will require weeks - and possibly months - of rehabilitation. His parents, Ed and Kate, and his sister Lily want to be by his side every step of the way. Luckily they live in Denver, but the recovery from this serious brain injury will be long and difficult. There are still many unknowns, but the financial strain this will cause for their family is obvious.
Today, January 9th, Landon can raise his hand to give a high-five, communicate with a thumbs-up, press the buttons on his bed to raise and lower his head and assist in turning the pages of a book. Although these seem like small things, they are HUGE wins for Landon!
My nephew is truly the smartest, kindest, strongest kid and we know he can overcome the many challenges he will face.
We want him to have the most love and support possible. Whether you send a healing thought or prayer or make a financial contribution to ease this stress on his family so they can focus on Landon's recovery - anything you can do for Landon is very appreciated!
If more money is collected than needed, Ed and Kate will share your generosity with others in need.
Thanks, The Streker and Goetz Families (Landon's proud and grateful family)
PS To follow along with updates on his progress, please visit